Healthy Tips

Looking to eat healthier? Let our 10 principles of healthy cooking help get you started.

10 Secrets to Cooking Healthier

If your eating habits are anything like those of most Americans and you are looking for the simplest advice possible we would tell you to eat more vegetables, fruits and whole grains and less of just about everything else. But if you’re ready for just a bit more guidance.

Use Smart Fats

Not all fat is bad. Opt for unsaturated (e.g., olive oil) over saturated fats such as butter. But still use them in moderation because all fats are loaded with calories.

Go Unrefined

Pick whole grains over refined grains. Whole grains like brown rice and bulgur have their bran intact and thus have more fiber, B vitamins, magnesium, zinc and other nutrients.

Eat More Fruits and Vegetables

Most people don’t get enough! Aim for 4 to 13 servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Pick produce in a variety of colors to get a range of antioxidants and vitamins. A serving size is 1/2 to 1 cup depending on the fruit or vegetable.

It’s Not All About the Meat

Meat is a great source of protein but it’s also a big source of saturated fat in many people’s diets. So eat small amounts of lean meat, fish and poultry. Fill up the rest of your plate with healthy vegetables and whole grains.

Choose Low-Fat Dairy

Dairy products like milk, sour cream and yogurt are a good source of calcium. Replacing whole-milk dairy products with low-fat or nonfat is an easy way to cut saturated fat in your diet.

Keep Portions Reasonable

Even though we would all like a magic bullet for weight control, it really boils down to calories. One of the easiest ways to manage calorie intake is by eating healthy portions.

Go For the Flavor

Enhance food with bold flavors from healthy ingredients like fresh herbs, spices and citrus. When your food has great flavor, there’s no reason to feel deprived.

Be Mindful and Enjoy

Make conscious food decisions rather than grabbing for what is most convenient. Make sure it is something delicious and savor it. When you enjoy what you eat, you feel satisfied.

Weight Loss Plans

Reader's Digest Association's 21-Day Tummy meal plan and Martha's Vineyard Diet Detox are nutritional programs that promise weight loss in 3 weeks. In combination with proper nutrition, the 21-day fitness regimen at Women's Health also guarantees a reduction in weight by as much as 15 pounds for the average fit woman, notes Women's Health.

The Martha's Vineyard Diet Detox claims to effectively help reduce 21 pounds in 21 days, although this weight loss is only short-term, states WebMD. This restrictive program will also likely lead to muscle loss, with headaches and fatigue as possible side effects.